The Best Lasagna Casserole Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Comfort comes alive with this mouthwatering lasagna casserole that brings traditional Italian flavors straight to your dinner table.

Rich layers of pasta, melted cheese, and hearty meat sauce create a symphony of taste in every single bite.

Weeknight dinners just got an upgrade with this deliciously simplified classic.

The recipe combines all the beloved elements of traditional lasagna into an easy-to-prepare casserole that saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Tender pasta sheets nestle between robust meat sauce and creamy cheese, promising a meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of textures and seasonings that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This lasagna casserole is your ticket to a memorable meal that celebrates simple, delectable cooking.

Lasagna Casserole for Cozy Nights In

• Speed Up Dinner Prep: Simplify traditional lasagna by transforming complex layers into a quick, one-dish casserole that cuts down cooking steps without sacrificing flavor.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with rich meat sauce, melted cheese, and hearty noodles, this dish guarantees smiles from kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ground beef for sausage, add extra vegetables, or experiment with different cheese blends to match your taste preferences and dietary needs without compromising the recipe's core deliciousness.
• Minimal Kitchen Cleanup: Using a single skillet and casserole dish means fewer pots and pans to wash, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

Lasagna Casserole Ingredient Essentials

• Ground Beef or Sausage: A hearty and flavorful base that provides rich meat for the lasagna casserole.

• Lasagna Noodles: The foundational layer that creates the classic structure of this comforting dish.

• Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy and smooth texture to the cheese mixture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a classic melty and stretchy cheese topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp and salty flavor to enhance the overall taste.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture and create a cohesive filling.

• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce that adds depth and traditional Italian flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Provides additional tomato richness and texture to the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the meat sauce.
• Onions: Contributes a sweet and savory base to the meat mixture.
• Oregano, Basil: Classic Italian herbs that provide authentic Mediterranean seasoning.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and spicy kick to the dish.

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Provides a fresh and vibrant finishing touch to the lasagna casserole.

Stepwise Guide for Lasagna Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F.

Grab your lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sizzle the Meat

Grab a large skillet and brown ground beef or sausage with chopped onions.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance for a minute.

• Marinara sauce
• Crushed tomatoes
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Let the sauce simmer and get all cozy for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheese Mixture

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan
• Beaten egg
• Chopped parsley

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna Magic

Mix the cooked noodles with the meat sauce.

• First layer: Half of the noodle and meat mixture
• Second layer: Cheese mixture
• Third layer: Remaining noodles

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for that restaurant-quality touch.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna Casserole Every Time

• Slightly undercook noodles before baking since they'll continue cooking in the casserole, preventing mushy texture.
• Use a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for richer, more complex meat sauce taste.
• Let ricotta mixture sit for 10 minutes before layering to help ingredients meld and intensify flavors.
• Drain meat sauce thoroughly to reduce excess liquid and keep casserole layers distinct and appetizing.
• Chop fresh basil or parsley just before sprinkling to maximize aromatic oils and bright flavor profile.

Lasagna Casserole Variations and Ideas

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace ground beef with plant-based protein like lentils, mushrooms, or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable marinara sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional pasta noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles or zucchini slices. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Keto Version: Substitute noodles with thinly sliced eggplant or cauliflower layers. Use full-fat cheeses and increase meat portion for higher fat content.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Add spinach, feta cheese, and swap marinara with a lighter tomato sauce. Include oregano and olive oil for authentic Mediterranean taste.

Serving Lasagna Casserole to a Crowd

• Rustic Family Feast: Serve this hearty lasagna casserole with a crisp green salad topped with balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Fresh Bread Pairing: Warm garlic bread or crusty Italian bread complements the rich, meaty layers perfectly and helps soak up extra sauce.
• Wine Companion: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to enhance the robust flavors of the lasagna and cut through its richness.
• Veggie Side Kick: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to complete this delicious dinner spread.

Storing Leftover Lasagna Casserole

• Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual portions or whole lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Label with date for tracking.
• Place single serving on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat at 50% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover lasagna with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove foil last 5 minutes for crispy cheese top.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a lean alternative that works perfectly in this lasagna casserole. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and season well to maintain flavor.

• How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming watery?

Drain excess liquid from meat sauce, use slightly less marinara, and ensure ricotta cheese isn’t too wet. Pat ricotta with paper towels to remove extra moisture before mixing.

• Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the entire casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to cooking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Lasagna Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty lasagna casserole delivers comfort straight from Italian kitchens, layering rich marinara, tender pasta, and melted cheese into a soul-warming meal. Hungry guests will devour this classic dish that promises pure culinary satisfaction with each delicious, cheesy bite.

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Ingredients

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Meat Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 small onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Pepper

Sauce Ingredients:

• 24 fluid ounces (710 milliliters) marinara sauce
• 15 fluid ounces (443 milliliters) crushed tomatoes

Cheese and Pasta Ingredients:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
• 12 fluid ounces (340 grams) wide egg noodles
• Fresh basil
• Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F. Cook pasta sheets until tender, then carefully drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, brown the meat with diced onions over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly. Pour in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, and seasonings. Allow the mixture to simmer and develop rich flavors for 10 minutes.
3. Create the cheese blend by combining ricotta, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, whisked egg, and chopped parsley in a separate mixing bowl. Blend until smooth and well-incorporated.
4. Gently fold the cooked pasta into the prepared meat sauce, ensuring even coating. Begin layering the casserole by spreading half the pasta-sauce mixture into a baking dish.
5. Evenly distribute the cheese mixture over the first layer of pasta. Top with remaining pasta-sauce combination, creating a complete coverage.
6. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the surface for a golden, crispy topping.
7. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, lighter version that’s perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising the rich, comforting texture.
• Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to help it set and make cutting and serving easier, preventing the layers from falling apart.
• For a vegetarian twist, replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to add depth and nutritional value to the dish.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 487 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 605 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg